Madison Square Garden has a new name to add to its long list of “villains.” In Game 2 of the NBA Playoffs, it was CJ McCollum who became the nightmare for New York Knicks fans, leading the Atlanta Hawks to a thrilling 107-106 win that evens the first-round series at 1-1.

I’m not a villain, I’m a good person with two kids and a wife. I think it’s admiration. They’re amazing fans and very passionate in a hostile environment. It’s fun, it’s basketball, it’s the playoffs. If I have to read into it, I see it as a form of respect

CJ McCollum

The former Blazers guard, with 32 points, was the undisputed star of the night at Madison Square Garden.

When the buzzer sounds and everything goes quiet as you walk off the floor, there’s mutual respect. I’ve been here as a fan, I’ve watched playoff games here. It’s a pleasure to play here and win here

CJ McCollum

The Hawks trailed for most of the second half, falling behind by double digits in the third quarter. New York appeared in control, building a solid lead especially during that stretch, but the closing moments completely shifted the momentum of the game.

In the fourth quarter, Atlanta picked up the pace and found offensive rhythm, while the Knicks gradually went cold. The home team managed just 15 points in the final period, opening the door for the Hawks’ comeback, as they chipped away possession by possession until taking the lead.

The decisive moment came in the final minutes: McCollum knocked down a series of clutch shots, including the basket that put Atlanta ahead late. Despite missing two free throws with 5.6 seconds remaining, the Knicks failed to capitalize on their final opportunity. Mikal Bridges missed the potential game-winner at the buzzer, sealing a bitter loss for New York.

The series now shifts to Atlanta for Game 3, with everything level and a clear sense: the battle between Hawks and Knicks is just getting started, and clutch execution could prove decisive in the games ahead.